Lot Ended
Description
Rare model, one of only 887 made; imported from Australia with
all duties paid; engine runs; in need of full restoration
The prototype MG
Y-Type was constructed in 1939 for display at that year's Earls Court Motor Show
but unfortunately, a little local difficulty with the Germans meant that it
didn't actually go on sale until 1947.
Styled by
Gerald Palmer, it was effectively an adaptation of the Morris Eight Series E
with re-styled front and rear ends more in keeping with the traditional MG
image. It also kept a separate chassis but modernity was allowed a look in with
the adoption of independent front suspension (designed by Alec Issigonis) and
rack-and-pinion steering, one of the first British production cars to have these
features. A Jackall hydraulic jacking system was also built in to aid
wheel-changing.
The YA Saloon had a single carb engine but the YT Tourer,
which came out in 1948, had the twin carb 55bhp 1,250cc XPAG engine from the contemporary
MG T-Series sportscars, giving the Tourer spritely performance with a top speed
of 76mph. The interior was well above average with lashings of leather and
classy instruments.
Only available for export in
both right- and left-hand drive format, just 887 YT Tourers were made (compared
to 6,151 saloons) before production ceased in 1950.
This YT Tourer left the Abingdon factory in September 1950
and arrived in Sydney, Australia in January 1951. It reputedly had four owners
up until 1974 when it was put into a barn requiring work. It stood there until
2021 when our vendor purchased it and exported it to his home in France.
Brought back to the UK earlier this year, with
all duties paid, it comes with a dating certificate from the MG Car Club Y
Register which should enable the new owner to apply for a V5C using the
requisite DVLA V62 form (also included).
The
vendor states that “the engine runs well with nearly 60psi oil pressure”. He
further states that “it drives but does not stop as the brake pipework requires
renewing. Most parts not fitted are with the car on the back seat and in a
sealed red box”.
An excellent winter restoration
project for someone, this rare YT is on offer here at a modest guide price and
needs to be saved for future generations to enjoy.
Consigned by James Dennison – 07970 309907 – [email protected]